Gambia launches policy to guide security sector reforms

President Adama Barrow has on Monday launched Gambia’s first-ever National Security Policy (NSP) as part of Security Sector Reforms aimed at addressing security challenges in the country at a ceremony held at Kairaba Beach Hotel.

Barrow said the policy is a necessity in order for the Government to properly guide the reform process of the security sector.

“The policy sufficiently provides a robust, coherent and strategic approach to respond collectively to national security threats through swift decision-making processes, clear lines of accountability and responsibility, prompt execution of action and commitment to building the Nation’s resilience to crime,” said Barrow.

Barrow added that the NSP sets out the directions government will take to safeguard the Gambian people and natural resources.

In 2017, The Gambia government has tasked a committee to work on security sector reforms whose responsibility include the drafting of National Security Policy where all national security institutions will derive their doctrines from.

“My Government is mindful of the current reality regarding the safety and security in our society and its responsibility to secure our dear country. Fulfilling this responsibility implies establishing the basis to pursue the vision enshrined in our National Development Plan (2018-2021) and our national objectives. The basis of growth, development and progress are peace, security and stability. As a result we cannot ignore this responsibility,” said Barrow.

“As contained in our national security vision, the policy seeks to create a united and secure nation wherein the people’s core values, welfare and well-being, way of life, territorial integrity and sovereignty are protected and enhanced.”